Dreaming Differences
A postman undergoes a radical procedure to permanently erase his need for sleep, hoping to survive a hyper-efficient society. Soon, his desperate struggle to match the relentless corporate pace threatens his humanity and his new blooming romance.
After losing his job, former post manager Petr is told his only chance in a hyper-efficient society is "Rouse" - a procedure eliminating sleep. He initially resists, finding love with Ema, a nurse treating Rouse's chronic side effects. Desperate, Petr undergoes the procedure to work 24/7 at a drone logistics firm. The endless grind and mounting side effects soon threaten his mind and his relationship, forcing him to choose between the system and the love he might soon lose.
Director's note
In today’s 24/7 society, the pursuit of success demands overwork and sleeplessness. The story is set in a near future where people can undergo 'Rouse' - a procedure that completely eliminates the need for sleep. This anti-utopian vision emerged from my personal fascination with the constant burden of work and the lack of time for loved ones.
The film reflects a reality familiar to many of us: the tension between professional success and being present for those we love. Too often, we let things go too far before recognizing the situation is unsustainable.
In my films, I enjoy exploring characters trapped in their rigid habits. Here, our protagonist Petr is suddenly forced to break free from his routine. Aesthetically resembling a contemporary drama enriched by sci-fi elements, akin to The Lobster or Severance, the film questions the empty promise of a good life under capitalism, where rest is always postponed until later - but later never comes.
Producer's note
Dreaming Differences is a debut lo-fi sci-fi feature and a natural continuation of the established collaboration between director Kateřina Winkler and producer Nataša Jurčová Findrová.
We have completed our first two script drafts, consulting them with our Slovak dramaturge Mária Ferenčuhová. The project has already gained strong momentum: we won the Feature Gems award at FEST New Directors and the TATINO FILMS Award at Bratislava Industry Days. We also participated in Marseille's Third Character platform, successfully securing our French composer, Dougal Kemp.
Planned as a parity co-production between the Czech Republic and Slovakia, we are currently seeking development financing in both countries. We believe that participating in the European Genre Forum will not only help us significantly improve the project itself but also increase its relevance and credibility within our national film funds.